People often write “check” or “cheque” interchangeably because the words have similar sounding pronunciations. But that’s not correct. Deciding between the two spellings of a bank-issued money order depends on where you live — “cheque” is the standard spelling in the United Kingdom and “check” in the United States.
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What Is a Cheque?
“Cheque” is not a spelling error. It is the preferred British English spelling for a bank-issued paper that you use to pay someone. A cheque consists of the payment amount or amount due, the name of the payee (the person or company who is the recipient of the money), the date, the cheque number, and the account holder’s signature and account number.
Fun Fact: The origin of the word “cheque” came from the word “eschequier,” which is an old French word related to chess.
Examples of “cheque” used in sentences:
- I have to go to the bank to encash the cheque she sent me.
- I mailed the cheque on Tuesday, so it should arrive by Friday.
- I got a holiday bonus cheque at work this year.
- I know it’s an expensive item. That’s why I’m writing a cheque!
- We don’t accept cheques, so your purchase is invalid.
- Having insufficient funds or non-sufficient funds (NSF) is the number one cause of cheque bounces.
- I was surprised when the cheque cleared and the money went into my account.
- I prefer writing a cheque for large transactions.
What Is a Check?
When you are talking about a check as a noun, it is the American English spelling of “cheque.” It is the same special piece of paper that promises payment. But the word “check” has other meanings, too.
You can use check as a verb when you are looking for something. For instance, you might check between the couch cushions because your phone is missing. “Check” can also be in a phrasal verb, like when you “check-in” to a hotel.
Examples of “check” used in sentences
- Can you check the right front tire if it’s flat?
- Do you have a cashier’s check?
- Do you have enough funds to issue a check?
- I worked more than 60 hours this week, so I should be getting a big check.
- Do you have a checking account?
- They’ve made a thorough check of the premises.
- Don’t forget to check in at the front desk before you go up to your room.
- We need to fact check this report.
- Please check in with your financial advisors if the money transfer was successful.
- Payroll checks are already transferred.
- Remember to check over your exam carefully to be sure you answered all the questions.
What’s the Difference?
If you’re talking about the specific paper you can exchange for money, the difference is all in the spelling. The word cheque in British English refers to that special paper that you can issue if you are paying someone. However, in American English, the spelling “check” is preferred, and it can mean other things, too.
When to Use Cheque and Check?
You would deposit your “cheque” in the bank if you were in the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, or Canada. But if you’re in the U.S., it’s a “check.” For other meanings, like in searching for something or seeing how things are going, use “check” every time.
Trick to Remembering the Correct Spelling
Location is the main factor that helps you decide whether to use check or cheque. Remember that the royal family is in England, where queens sometimes rule. Match the “que” in queen with the “que” in cheque as a reminder to use cheque in British English.
Use “check” in American English when you have a note to deposit or to cash. If used as a verb, “check” is always the spelling to choose.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you now know which spelling to use. Just for a quick recap, cheque or check refers to a cashless payment (through bank order) made to another person or company. However, “cheque” is more common spelling in the United Kingdom, and “check” in the United States. Don’t forget to always use “check” for everything else, from going to check out a new movie to stopping to check the mail!
